U.S. Postal Service Announces 2021 Stamp Honoring Nisei Veterans

Courtesy USPS

Yesterday, the United States Postal Service announced the 2021 Go for Broke: Japanese American Soldiers of WWII commemorative stamp series. The announcement states:

With this commemorative stamp, the Postal Service recognizes the contributions of Japanese American soldiers, some 33,000 altogether, who served in the U.S. Army during World War II. The stamp, printed in the intaglio method, is based on a photograph. “Go for Broke” was the motto of the all-Japanese American 100th Infantry Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team and came to represent all Japanese American units formed during World War II. The stamp was designed by art director Antonio Alcalá.

Our friends at Stamp Our Story have led the campaign to honor the Nisei veterans through a commemorative stamp for over 15 years, and have submitted formal requests for a "Go For Broke" stamp in various forms since 2005. In their announcement they remark:

As we celebrate this announcement, we also ask that you join us in taking a moment to remember the service and sacrifice of the American men and women of Japanese heritage who served during World War II. Over 800 gave their lives. They served with distinction and honor alongside the 16 million fellow American servicemen and servicewomen of the war. 

Friends of Minidoka was able to garner the support of Representative Mike Simpson and Senators Mike Crapo and James Risch for the stamp in 2017. The members of Idaho’s Congressional delegation submitted a letter to the Post Master General noting that “Despite the hardships faced by Japanese Americans at home during World War II, many chose to enlist in the United States Army. A commemorative stamp would serve as tribute to these American heroes and their families for their extraordinary service to our nation.” This was followed by an op-ed written by Senator Crapo honoring the strength and patriotism of Japanese Americans.  

We are grateful to everyone involved for their work to honor the Nisei veterans in this way, and look forward to seeing the stamp in 2021!